14 Coastal Towns That Feel Like a Slice of the Mediterranean

8. Lamu, Kenya – A Swahili Santorini

Lamu, an ancient Swahili coastal town, is Kenya’s answer to the Greek Islands, with its whitewashed buildings, palm-fringed courtyards, and relaxed island vibe. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu Old Town is one of the oldest and best-preserved settlements in East Africa, where narrow, winding alleyways lead to hidden gardens filled with bougainvillea, and the rhythmic call to prayer echoes through the air. The town’s architecture, featuring Arab, Portuguese, and Indian influences, gives it a look reminiscent of Santorini, Hydra, or even the small coastal towns of Crete. Unlike bustling cityscapes, Lamu has no cars—donkeys and dhows (traditional wooden sailboats) remain the primary means of transport, just as they were centuries ago in old Mediterranean fishing villages. The town’s lively waterfront, where fishermen bring in their daily catch, feels like a scene straight out of Sicily or the Greek Isles, with its fresh seafood, spice-laden markets, and sunlit stone buildings. The slow pace of life, combined with sun-drenched beaches, exquisite Swahili cuisine, and a deep cultural history, makes Lamu a perfect escape for travelers looking for an alternative to the Mediterranean, without sacrificing charm, beauty, or authenticity.